Need advice...looking to buy Rocket.

[kajoh]

Well, I think my renting days are over. I'm finally going to take the plunge and buy. Took a R3 touring for a ride and a Roadster. Like them both but think I'm going to settle for a used standard or a classic that has some touring accesories. Have to make the missus comfy.
Do have some concerns though. Have been reading that there have been problems and recalls. Seems to be, if memory serves me right that this is more common on 05-07 models. Have there been similiar problems in newer models too?

I have been concentrating my search on 08 and newer models, so if anyone out there has one for sale or knows of one please feel free to let me know.
Thanks in advance.

 

[TriumPhil]

Yes, that's correct, kajoh, the R3 did have some bad parts and production issues, predominantly into about the first half of the '07 model year run. I am certain that several members will come along to provide more detail, however you should be able to find all of the pertinent info by utilizing the search function on the main toolbar above. "Factory Recalls", "Upgrade Kit", "TPS Problems", "Paint Can Rattle", "Shifting (Transmission) Problems", "Lower Cam Chain Tension Adjuster" are all different search titles that will provide you with the sort of info you seek.

Up until quite recently, Triumph was honoring these factory engineering/faulty component issues via various "upgrade kits" and free service work, even for second owners and bikes well out of their warranty period. Apparently, that gravy train has seemed to come to an end.

I would not let such issues deter you from purchasing one of the older model Rockets. Just, do your due diligence, ask sellers the pertinent questions (regarding needed repairs, parts replacements and whether any "upgrade kit" work was necessary and/or done) and confirm that any such required work was performed by the seller's servicing Triumph dealership or otherwise.

In December of '09, I happened to have purchased an '07 Standard model that had about $5K in upgraded parts, accessories and bling on her. I confirmed with the seller and with his own, local dealership that my bike had had the full upgrade kit work performed. Consequently, she has provided me with over 10K miles of trouble free fun, other than for a faulty primary TPS that went south on me about 2k miles ago. Even for that failure on a bike nearly 18 mos. out of warranty and on its second owner (me), Triumph picked up the $109 cost of the part and I payed for the labor only!

My Mulberry Mistress came to me with 2700 mies on the clock, cost $10K and she's been worth every cent of that cost and more in miles and smiles provided.

Happy hunting!

 

[dandiego]

You really gotta re-think the R3T! I've had my Touring for almost 2 years now and I like it more every time I ride it. Seriously, it's a great bike and plenty comfy for the lil' lady.

If you really must have the 240 series rear tire (vs the 180 rear on the Touring) then by all means, the Classic or Standard are for you.

Now, about price. I've seen some 2007 Stds asking $10K plus, but you really need to shop around for a good deal. One of my friends is/was recently selling his '08 or '09 R3T, fully loaded, for a sweet deal. (Spongy Rider on this site.)

Perhaps the best thing would be to put a wanted ad on Craiglist and this site asking for a good price. The Rocket IIIs retain their value, but I've seen some deals out there, to be sure.

Good luck!

 

[Kmutt]

Take another test ride on an R3T with the missus and she what she thinks. The wife loves the Touring and I have a blast riding it back and forth to work. Two different machines though (Standard/classic vs touring) So once your set on riding style you can then pursue. But I do love the touring and it has served me well. Only problem I have had is the gear shifter snapped at the connecting rod. Other than that its been a solid rider!
Good Luck! Keep us posted!

mutt

 

[kajoh]

Thanks for all the great advice guys. I think my search is now going to be focused on the 08's and newer. Have to tell you, I really did like the Touring, but its that single headlight, it really did turn me off to it. Plus my last bike was a Honda Interceptor...a go fast bike and even tho the Touring still does have that get up and go, I like to have just that little bit more.

So I guess at this point, the hunt will continue. Looking for that 08 or newer Classic or Standsard with some bling and lower miles. Anyone out there know of one please let me know.

Just another question, did the 08-09's have the same recall, drivetrain, engines issues or did they pretty well fix those problems?

Thanks again.

 

[T Evans]

Where are you located at? Or in what part of the country are you looking to try to stay in for you bike search.

Big T

 

[TriumPhil]

...Just another question, did the 08-09's have the same recall, drivetrain, engines issues or did they pretty well fix those problems? Thanks again.

The vast majority of such problems were resolved by the middle of the '07 production run.

 

[Tripps]

There's an accessory light bar for the R3T, adds 2 auxiliary lights, mine came with it, lights up the road like aircraft landing lights. Many used may have it already. When we stop for gas or a break with they guys I ride with, they walk around and stretch, I never get off sometimes, sit on the bike and have a smoke. Real comfy, she love you long time.

 

[CanberraR3]

I think the Standard or Classic are the way to go. Many came out with or have had added all the touring stuff you need - and they go faster. A few very simple (and cheap) mods and you can match the claimed (and most likely overstated) extra power of the Roadster. Touring is a tourer; heavier and better suited to the long haul. No slouch but horses for courses I say. Classic has much more comfortable seat than the Standard (or Roadster) and especially for pillion but the pulled back bars didn't suit me. I prefer the riding position of the Standard and like pegs better than boards so I got a Standard and swapped the seat and pillion back rest over from a Classic. Whatever you get, you'll love it!

 

[kajoh]

Big T I'm located just across from Detroit, Michigan in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. I really don't have a set search area. If I find a bike I really like I will have it shipped to Detroit and then take it across the border from there.
Thats exactly what I was thinking Canberra...little extra speed with that Classic or Standard. And Tripps its nothing really to do with the light that it throws I guess its just the look. I really like the double light compared to the single one.

Glad to see that the problems were sorted out in the 07's.. Thanks Phil.